Give Them Some Space! Wildlife Watching Ethics on OSMP

Watching wildlife is a great way to enjoy nature and fun for people of all ages. But as you watch, remember that the animals may not enjoy it quite as much as you do.

As more and more people begin to participate in wildlife watching, the chance of disrupting the lives that are the focus of our attention also increases. And the wildlife we impact most is those animals that are most accessible. Reducing your impact on the animals you observe ties into the fourth "Leave No Trace" principle, Leave It As You Find It.

Our natural urge is to get as close as possible. This is particularly true when you're trying to set up the perfect photograph.

Many OSMP employees have observed some amazing behavior themselves while watching those who are watching wildlife. Some typical incidents include people walking within a few feet of a large mule deer buck or tossing candy to a black bear. Any wild animal can be dangerous, and though animals are usually amazingly tolerant of rude people, a buck or bear can cause serious injury.When a person tries to cautiously approach an animal, the animal may well become frightened because it may interpret the approach as a predator stalking its prey. Humans should never disturb birds in their nests or mammals in their dens or with their young. OSMP seasonally closes certain parts of our land system to all users protect breeding wildlife (see an updated list of closures here).  Follow this link to meet some of the incredible animals protected by these closures.

Winter is a good time to watch wildlife. But bothering animals in the winter can be particularly harmful because they may expend energy that they need to survive the cold. Your car can actually be effective as a "blind" because animals may be accustomed to cars while skittish if a person walks near them.Here are some suggestion on the proper way to watch wildlife.

Observe animals from a distance THEY consider safe. Get your "closeup" by using binoculars, spotting scopes and telephoto camera lenses. What is a "safe distance?" You are probably too close if most of the animals: are looking at you with heads up and ears pointed toward you; are nervous; or are "jumpy" when you move or make a noise. If you see these signs, sit quietly, or move slowly away until the behavior changes. Move slowly and casually, not directly AT the wildlife. Allow them to keep you in view, don't sneak up and surprise them. Most animals rely on their eyesight and sense of smell to keep them from danger.

Never chase the wildlife. Don't follow them or behave in any way that might be seen as "harassment," which is unlawful. Keep pets in your vehicle. (Follow this link to learn about "Leave No Trace" dogs.

Using the animals' behavior as a guide, limit the time you spend with the animals, just as you would when visiting any friend's home. Please respect the space of others who may be viewing the same wildlife. If you approach too closely, you will ruin everyone's opportunity for natural, relaxed photographs and observation.

Observing these simple principles will enable you to make the most of your time viewing wildlife -- and that's the whole idea! Curious about potential hazards in OSMP? Visit our hazards web page.

More Wildlife Links

Wildlife Watching Ethics
Mammals
Birds
Insects
Bears & Mountain Lions
Rare and Sensitive Species
Wildlife Protected by Area Closures
Reptiles / Amphibians
Bats

Last Updated on Monday, 24 August 2009 10:50